Hobbies

"Fast Bikes", January 1, 2013

Another Italian hypermoto style bike emerges, this time from the busy MV Agusta

The best bike in show award at the Italian Eicma show went not to the Austrian KTM Super Duke 1290 R, but to the new MV Agusta Rivale. When BJ went to the factory in the spring, he was promised something special, and that's exactly what's been delivered. What with the new F3, the Brutale 800 and an updated F4RR, this really is renaissance time at MV - and we love it!

The new counter rotating crank 798cc engine, as used in the new Brutale, is based on the inline triple 675, using a longer stroke to hit a power output of 125bhp. We've still to ride anything with this motor in, but if it's anything like the F3 it's going to be hugely entertaining.

Using the Hypermotard-type styling, its lines are deliciously sculpted, creating a muscular and dynamic machine that threatens, even when it's on the side stand. Expect zero weather protection, 100mph winds battering you and a huge amount of attention - especially with the exhaust note singing out of the three-exit can. It'll use MV's MVICS electronics package, so that means the ride-by-wire system enables all sorts of control to be executed via the on board brains of the outfit.

The chassis abides by MV's principles of using a steel trellis is joined to rear aluminum alloy plates. With a Sachs shock, Marzocchi forks and Brembo brakes, the spec of the bike is high - although not reflected by its £9,299 price. We're expecting MV to release this bike in late spring/early summer, so if someone could point us to the head of the queue, that's where you'll find us.

• Brutale 800

Having started life as a 750 inline four, the latest spec Brutale is now an 798cc triple. Thanks to stroking the F3’s motor, the lump lends itself perfectly to the naked sportster, and with the traditional lines of the Brutale blessing the new machine it’s sure to be a riot. At £8,999, it’s an exotic option at a pretty decent price. It’s out soon...

• F4RR

MV claims this is the best F4 yet. Further refinements include a snazzy Öhlins electronic suspension, M50 Brembo brakes and titanium con rods. The latter enable MV to boast the RR now has a 200bhp output. Weight has been shaved off the silencer, lightweight forged wheels are new and the front fairing features a new spoiler. It’s £18,500.